Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. KTOS recently secured a contract for hypersonic system program, with a potential total value of approximately $100 million. Per the contract, Kratos will provide engineering, systems and hardware support. The work related to this contract will be carried out in Kratos’ secure fabrication, manufacturing and system integration facilities.

KTOS’ Growth Prospects in Hypersonic Market

Rising military conflicts, terrorism and border disputes have driven nations across the globe to focus more on national security, particularly in strengthening hypersonic systems. This growth is driven by increased investments in hypersonic glide vehicles, cruise missiles and spaceplanes, supported by advancements in propulsion systems and new aerospace designs. The rising challenges of modern warfare, along with the need for faster response times and greater accuracy, highlight the importance of hypersonic technology in strengthening global defense systems.

This is likely to have prompted the BIS Research firm to forecast a compound annual growth rate of 8.9% for the global hypersonic market during the 2024-2034 time period.

This should benefit Kratos, an established player in the hypersonic systems market. The company is known for creating fast and cost-effective solutions, including jet-powered unmanned aerial drone systems, hypersonic vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, spacecraft and launch systems. By using proven technologies and efficient production methods, Kratos ensures quicker delivery and lower costs. Its focus on innovative and scalable solutions makes it a trusted partner for governments and major defense companies.

Prospects of Other Defense Companies

Other defense companies that are likely to enjoy the benefits of the expanding hypersonic market have been discussed below.

RTX Corporation RTX: RTX plays a critical role in the hypersonic market by leveraging its extensive experience to deliver advanced offensive and defensive systems. The company focuses on end-to-end solutions, including innovations in heat management, propulsion and sensing technologies, ensuring these systems remain effective against evolving threats.

The company’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 10.3%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RTX’s 2025 sales indicates year-over-year growth of 5.4%.

Lockheed Martin Corporation LMT: Lockheed Martin has more than six decades of experience working with hypersonic technology. The company focuses on developing and implementing cutting-edge hypersonic systems critical for national defense, supported by its expertise in missile technology, advanced materials and integrated deterrence strategies.

The company’s long-term earnings growth rate is 4.4%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for LMT’s 2025 sales indicates year-over-year growth of 4.1%.

Northrop Grumman Corporation NOC: Northrop Grumman has been working on hypersonic technology for more than eight decades. The company has years of experience in designing, building and assembling rocket motors for the Pentagon and its allies. They have also developed advanced propellant formulas, making them a key player in hypersonic innovation.

The company’s long-term earnings growth rate is 19%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NOC’s 2025 sales indicates year-over-year growth of 3.4%.

KTOS Stock’s Price Movement

Shares of KTOS have gained 27.3% in the past three months compared with the industry’s 1.7% growth.

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KTOS’ Zacks Rank

KTOS currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

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